As part of the Press Tour to Meghalaya organised by the Press Information Bureau (PIB), Government of India, a media delegation from Karnataka today held an extensive interaction with members of the Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council (KHADC) to gain deeper insights into the region’s traditional governance system, administrative structure, and developmental initiatives.
The interaction was chaired by Shri Strong Kharjana, Chairman, KHADC. Senior officials and members of the Council present on the occasion included Shri Powell Sohkhlet, Executive Member, Information Technology, etc, Shri Seibor Warbah, Executive Member, Finance, Shri Denzil Chen, Executive Member, Elaka, Smt. Deiti Majaw, Executive Member, Law)m, and Shri D.G. Syiemiong, Secretary, Executive Committee.
During the interaction, the KHADC members provided a comprehensive overview of the role, powers and responsibilities of the Autonomous District Council, functioning under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution of India. They explained how KHADC plays a vital role in preserving the customs, traditions, and cultural identity of the Khasi people, while simultaneously addressing the administrative and developmental needs of the region.
The Council members elaborated on various aspects of governance, including the functioning of traditional institutions, the administration of Elakas, implementation of customary laws, and land and resource management systems. Emphasis was laid on the importance of community participation and consensus-based decision-making in maintaining social harmony and effective grassroots governance.
Issues related to financial administration, legal frameworks, use of information technology in governance, and developmental initiatives undertaken by the Council were also discussed. The members highlighted ongoing efforts to strengthen institutional capacity, improve service delivery, and address challenges related to development while safeguarding indigenous rights and environmental sustainability.
The media delegation actively engaged with the KHADC leadership, seeking clarifications on the functioning of the autonomous governance system and its relevance in contemporary administration. The interaction provided the journalists with valuable firsthand understanding of Meghalaya’s unique administrative framework, which blends age-old traditions with modern governance practices.
The visiting media professionals appreciated the opportunity to interact directly with the leadership of KHADC and acknowledged that the engagement would help in presenting informed and accurate perspectives on Meghalaya’s governance and cultural heritage to a wider national audience.
The Press Tour to Meghalaya continues to offer the media delegation meaningful exposure to the State’s cultural, administrative, and developmental landscape, fostering greater awareness and understanding through responsible media coverage.
